Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame icon Jimmy Dickens is in critical care with an undisclosed illness after being admitted to a Nashville area hospital on Christmas day.
Dickens' wife, family and the Opry are requesting prayers from his friends and fans around the world. Dickens turned 94 on Dec. 19.
He last performed at the Opry on Dec. 20 as part of his 94th birthday celebration, according to the Tennessean.
Born James Cecil Dickens, the singer carved out his fame with novelty songs ("I'm Little but I'm Loud"), his 4-foot-11-inch frame and his glitzy country stage outfits.
Dickens became a Grand Ole Opry member in 1948, and was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983.
Among his enduring classics are "Take An Old Cold Tater (And Wait)," "Country Boy," "Out Behind The Barn" and "May The Bird Of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose."
Cards and well wishes can be sent to him at the Opry:
Jimmy Dickens
c/o Grand Ole Opry House
2804 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN 37214
